Final answer:
A practitioner using meridians for treatment is likely an acupuncturist, who operates within the realm of traditional Chinese medicine or may also be a chiropractor integrating acupuncture in their practice. Proper needle sterilization is crucial to minimize the risk of pathogen exposure during acupuncture.
Step-by-step explanation:
A practitioner who uses meridians to guide the treatment plan is most likely practicing acupuncture. This form of alternative medicine is grounded in traditional Chinese medication and employs a technique where fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific points along the meridians of the body to relieve pain and potentially provide other health benefits. As acupuncture involves penetrating the skin, it could facilitate exposure to pathogens if proper sterilization protocols are not followed. Every practitioner must ensure that the acupuncture needles are sterile and that the practice is performed in a clean environment to minimize the risk of infection and maintain patient health.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, while using techniques such as acupuncture, also incorporate various natural substances to balance the body's health, including herbal medicines and animal products. TCM compliments western medicine in some medical facilities, integrating both biomedical practice with ethnomedicine. This combination of medical systems provides a holistic approach to patient care. Furthermore, chiropractors may also include acupuncture in their treatment regimen, along with manual manipulation techniques and other therapeutic exercises to promote healing.